When the Charlotte Hornets selected Tidjane Salaun in the 2024 draft, they knew they were getting a project player who might need more than a couple of years to come into his own. That much was evident during his rookie year. Even so, we can't just write off the possibility of Salaun making the leap this offseason and becoming a more serviceable player in the 2025-26 campaign.
If he finds a way to develop his rebounding and defense, he could be vital in addressing the supposed problem the Hornets have at center.
Many folks, including pundits like Zach Lowe, are a bit pessimistic about Charlotte's chances of turning the corner this year, noting that its decision not to look for better reinforcements at the big man position could be its undoing.